Latest topics

(NC) Picture this: a stock purchase of $10,000 made at the end of 1992 and held until 2013 would have netted the investor close to $49,000 — which comes out to an annual compounding rate of 8.27%. Keep in mind that during this period we experienced the popping of the tech bubble in 2000 and the 2008 financial crisis. Now, for the sake of argument, let's look at the return of the same investment amount, held for the same period of time — 21 years — but sold during a time of stability:

• Sold during the 10 best days: $26,537 in accumulated capital — 46 % less than the amount above

(NC) A will is your most important document. When you die without a will, the law decides what happens to your home and other assets, including your pets, as well as who gets custody of your children.

If it's not written down in a formal will, it doesn't matter what you wanted, nor whether your wishes were communicated to loved ones. Dying without a will means giving up your chance to make key choices than can impact those you leave behind. It is also important to remember, will or no will, your debts will be paid before anything goes to your beneficiaries.

(NC) Couponing has always played a key role in helping families and individuals manage their grocery expenses. It's become such a popular trend that there are now television shows dedicated to all-star couponing moms. But what was once a time-consuming task consisting of carefully clipping, saving and sorting grocery flyer coupons to get deals, has become easy as taking a picture with your smart phone.

(NC) With the shrinking loonie and rising cost of groceries, Canadians are finding it a challenge to keep their refrigerators full and the pantries stocked. Most find themselves constantly running back to the store to replenish the staple products they need and are desperately looking for ways to save.

(NC) Being able to communicate with family, friends and first responders during any dangerous event is critical. However, the everyday communication devices that we have come to rely on may not work at such a time.

Here are some steps you can take before an emergency strikes to help you stay in touch:

• Keep at least one corded phone in your home (if you have a landline). Cordless phones rely on electricity and will not work during a power outage.